Novel multifunctional PHDCA/PEI nano-drug carriers for simultaneous magnetically targeted cancer therapy and diagnosis via magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract

Novel multifunctional magnetic polycation drug carriers (MPDCs) were synthesized to provide simultaneous magnetically targeted cancer therapy and diagnosis via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The MPDCs consist of ultra-sensitive magnetic nanocrystals as MR probes and for magnetic targeting, and a chemotherapeutic agent encapsulated in poly(hexadecylcyanoacrylate) (PHDCA) nanoparticles. The PHDCA nanoparticles were further coated with polycationic polyethylenimine (PEI) to enhance cellular uptake efficiency. The MPDCs demonstrated ultra-sensitivity via MRI and sufficient magnetic mobility under an external magnetic field. Drug loading efficiency and release kinetics were also investigated. From the cell viability data, the MPDCs were nontoxic and the doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX)-loaded MPDCs exhibited excellent tumorcidal efficacy.